Professional Documents
Culture Documents
United Kingdom
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Index
Contents
Page
UK Driving Tips
Touring Guides
London
9-10
Southeast England
11-12
Southwest England
13-15
East England
16-17
18-19
20-21
Northwest England
22-23
24-25
Northeast England
26-27
Scotland
28-29
Wales
30-31
Northern Ireland
32-33
34
Accommodation Ideas
35
36
Key Facts
37
Money Matters
38
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London Bridge
Insurance
Car Rental companies in the UK will normally include:
Third Party insurance: Compulsory insurance that will be included in your car rental rate. This covers
you for other peoples injury and damage to their vehicle.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): This limits your financial liability for damage to the rented vehicle,
and is normally included in prepaid car rental rates. Rentals are normally subject to liability deductible, which can be reduced at the time you collect your rental car.
Theft Loss Cover: This limits your financial liability for the loss or theft of the rented vehicle and is
generally included in prepaid car rental rates.
Fire and Liability: This limits your financial liability for bodily injury or death, and is normally included in prepaid car rental rates.
Personal Accident Insurance: This covers the driver for personal injuries and is generally not included in your car rental rates. It is considered an optional extra that you can take upon collection of the
car.
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Parking
License
Requirements
Car Fuel
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Fuel Capacity
Type
Transmission
Fuel/Air Cond.
M = Mini
E = Economy
C = Compact
0.8 - 1.0
1.0 - 1.4
1.2 - 1.6
B = 2 Door
D = 4 Door
C = 2/4 door
M = Manual
A = Automatic
N = Manual 4WD
R = Yes
N = No
D = Diesel Air
F = Full size
2.0 - 3.2
L = Limousine
C = Manual AWD
Q = Diesel No Air
P = Premium
2.0 - 4.2
S = Sports Car
B = Auto 4WD
H = Hybrid Air
L = Luxury
2.0 - 4.2
T = Convertible
D = Auto AWD
I = Hybrid No Air
X = Special
1.2 - 3.0
J = All Terrain
E = Electric Air
R= Recreational
C = Electric No Air
F = 4 Wheel Drive
X = Special
K = Commercial
Van/Truck
P = Special
X = Special
Can I rent an automatic car in UK?
Yes, however automatics are generally more expensive than manual cars.
Will I be able to collect my rental car direct from the airport once I arrive, or will I have to take a shuttle bus to
the depot?
The majority of car rental companies have desks at both international and domestic airport terminals, and many
will have a shuttle bus that will take you direct to your rental vehicle. Check with Auto Europe before you arrive
to find out the details to collect the car.
Are there additional fees to collect my rental car from UK airports?
Auto Europes car rental rates usually do include the airport or premium location fees for car rental collections
in the UK. Check on your prepaid voucher to make sure that this is included.
What about collecting my rental car from downtown locations in the UK?
Downtown, airport and railway locations are all considered premium locations, and as above these fees are included in Auto Europe s inclusive car rental rates.
Do I need a credit card to collect my car rental?
Yes. Car rental suppliers will usually freeze the deductible of the vehicle (from 550) which will be refunded to
your credit card when the rental car is returned at the end of the rental. Some suppliers refund the deposit via a
check that is mailed to the renters residential address.
Can I collect my rental car in one UK city and drop it off in another UK city?
Yes, this is certainly possible, but in most cases there may be a one-way fee payable when you collect your rental. Check with Auto Europe before you travel to find out any additional costs. In most cases, there are no fees for
one way rentals within mainland UK.
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London
London is the capital of the United Kingdom and is one of the worlds largest financial centers, alongside New
York. London is the dynamic, multicultural and historically vibrant epicentre of Europe. Whether its festivals,
fashion, food, fun or film youre after, you will find it all in the sprawling metropolis of London, and then some!
The sheer scale of London ensures visitors a never ending supply of sites to see and cultures to experience. Be
entertained at Knightsbridge and Soho, be charmed by the bountiful green places and Royal Parks and
unwind at a traditional, cosy English pub in one of the undisputed greatest cities in the world.
Whats On
January:
March:
May:
tor attractions.
June:
Spend an afternoon in the parks - Stroll through WestminWimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships from late ster, Holland, Hyde, or Regents Parks.
June through to early July.
Stroll through the famous street markets - Take a trip to
July:
Great British Beer Festival.
August:
September:
October:
November:
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London to Windsor
For the perfect day out, take a leisurely drive along the M4 down to Windsor. The trip will take you under
an hour and on arrival you will be spoilt for choice of things to do. Stroll through the historically quaint
streets, take a half day boating trip along the river and
finish the day by visiting the famous castle. The
Windsor castle is the largest inhabited castle in the
world and is still used as an official residence by the
British Monarch. Queen Elizabeth II spends most of
the weekends at the castle entertaining for both
private and state functions. After a tour of the castle, stop at one of the many restaurants and cafes
for a bite to eat before heading back to London.
Windsor Castle
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Southeast England
The Southeast region of England consists of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, East Sussex, Hampshire, Isle of Wight,
Kent, Oxfordshire, Surrey and West Sussex. Almost all of these regions are within a two hour drive from the center of London, and are firm favorites among Londoners and seasoned visitors alike. With gorgeous seaside towns,
vibrant lifestyles, cities built around world famous universities and rich culture and history, the southeast of England has something to offer every traveler!
Whats On
Visit the Canterbury Cathedral This magnificent cathedral dates back to 597AD, with beautiful stained glass and
is the home to the Archbishop of Canterbury.
See St Augustines Abbey, Canterbury These remains are
World Heritage listed.
Canterbury Castle See the ruins of the Norman castle
built in the 11th AD.
Dover, Kent
race
May:
Brighton Festival, Brighton Three week festival
with concerts, parades and street entertainers.
Canterbury Half Marathon
Eights Week, Oxford Main event of inter-college
rowing races
June:
Classic Car Run, Brighton
Cowley Road Carnival, Oxford Oxfords largest
festival
Stour Festival, Canterbury 10 day music festival
July:
Kent Beer Festival, Canterburys Merton Farm
Tour de France Cyclist ride from London, finishing in Canterbury in early July
August:
Reading Festival, Berkshire International music
festival
Classical Proms, Oxford Open-air classical concert
Herne Bay Festival, Canterbury Music, fireworks
and street parades
Zippos Circus, Brighton & Hove
September:
Windsor Festival Annual festival held over 7
days.
Hop Hoodening, Kent Traditional English festival
October:
White Night, Brighton Illuminations, city tours
and street performances
Canterbury Festival, Kent
November:
Veteran Car Run, Brighton
Bonfire Night Held beginning of November
across southeast England
Euro Fair Held late November across Canterbury,
a massive Christmas market
Brighton Pavilion
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Arundel Cathedral
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Southwest England
The Southwest of England has long been regarded as one of the most beautiful regions in Britain. This region
consists of Bristol, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire, Devon, Cornwall and Isles of Scilly. The
Southwest provides magnificent scenery, wild moors, great beaches, stunning coastlines, charming villages
and vibrant cities. All this, along with history and heritage like no other! Perfect for the self drive holiday.
Whats On
March:
Somerset Spring Festival of Food & Drink
April:
Apr Sept: Classic Cars on the Prom, Seafront, Bournemouth
World Heritage Day, Bath
May:
Salisbury International Arts Festival
Bath Dance Festival, Bath
Mayfest, Bristol
Dragonboat Regatta, Gloucester
Cheese-Rolling Race, Gloucestershire
June:
Glastonbury Festival, Somerset World famous music festival
Exmouth Summer Festival
September:
Jane Austin Festival, Bath
Cornwall Food & Drink Festival, Lemon Quay, Truro
October:
British National Surfing Championships, Fistral Beach,
Newquay
Falmouth Oyster Festival, Falmouth, Cornwall
November:
Fireworks and Guy Falkes Celebrations Weymouth,
Gloucester, Bournemouth and Bristol
Bath Mozart Festival, Bath
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See the Clifton Suspension Bridge Stroll across this amazing bridge and enjoy
the views of the Avon Gorge.
Take the family to the Bristol Zoo Gardens See over 450 species of wonderful
animals from around the world, set in 12 acres of gardens.
Get scientific Discover Explore-At-Bristol and explore the amazing hands-on
Planetarium.
Shop til you drop Visit Cabot Circus, Broadmead and the Mall Bristol for brilliant retail therapy.
See the worlds fist great ocean liner Explore Brunels SS Great Britain.
Enjoy the nightlife Eat out at waterfront restaurants, bars or visit the trendy
bars on The Strip.
Gloucestershire
Visit Berkeley Castle Fantastic medieval fortress, and place where King Edward II was murdered.
Drive around Cotswolds Discover the gentle hill country, and visit gardens and lovely historic houses.
See the Gloucester Cathedral See the beautiful honey colored lime-stone cathedral in the heart of Gloucester.
Somerset
Visit World Heritage Listed Bath See the Roman Baths and Pump Room, and even soak in the Thermae Bath Spa.
See the Bath Abbey and the Royal Crescent as well.
Glastonbury See the Tor and the Abbey
Cheddar Gorge Explore the caves, go on bat patrol.
Exmoor National Park Enjoy the peace of deep valleys, sparkling rivers and high sea cliffs, maybe even spot
some wild red deer.
Wookey Hole Caves Visit great caves and see the home of the infamous Witch of Wookey.
See Wells Cathedral Magnificent cathedral dating back to 12th century and built in English Gothic style.
Dorset
Uncover fossils and prehistoric remains Explore the Jurassic Coast, with steep white cliffs and stunning
countryside hiding historic gems.
Visit Stonehenge, Amesbury This prehistoric monument surrounded by the remains of domestic and ceremonial buildings, is a World Heritage Site.
See 800 years of history Visit beautiful Salisbury Cathedral and see the tallest spire in Britain.
Bowood House and Gardens, Calne See the magnificent 18th century house complete with paintings and art
works, and fantastic landscaped garden.
Devon
Visit Dartmoor National Park Walk, hike or camp in this wild, craggy landscape.
Catch a wave Go surfing at Croyde or Lynmouth.
Discover sea faring history Explore Plymouth, where the historic Mayflower first departed, as well as the stunning natural harbour and surrounding wild moor lands.
Cornwall
Visit the Eden Project See the giant biomes (greenhouses) and experience rainforest, desert and temperate climates in the one area.
Discover seaside villages Fishing ports, whitewashed houses, sweeping bays and granite breakwaters.
St Michaels Mount Visit the castle and church on this iconic island, which is only accessible by foot at low tide,
or by boat at high tide.
Have a day at the beach With over 320 miles of magnificent coastline, with sandy beaches and great scenery,
youre sure to find a great spot to spend the day.
Isle of Scilly
Take a boat tour around the island archipelago Visit Tresco Abbey Garden at Tresco, The Halangy Down Ancient Bronze Age Village or the Isles of Scilly Museum on St Marys.
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London to Bristol
Many city dwellers follow this route
to escape the trappings of London
and unwind by the seaside, while enjoying the picturesque scenery along
the way. Take the M4 out of London
and head to Reading on the confluence of the River Thames and the River Kent, which is home to two universities, the Abbey Ruins and the Forbury Gardens, plus great pubs and restaurants. Follow the A33 to Basingstoke,
then onto the A303 along to Amesbury. This is the home of world famous Stonehenge, so stop for an hour or two
and explore the surrounding countryside.
Back on the road, drive past lush countryside on the A36, then north into Bath. Explore the magnificent Roman
Baths, have lunch in a quaint English pub, see the Bath Abbey or just stroll the medieval streets with historic terraces and wonderful shops. Only a short half hour drive north west is the vibrant city of Bristol. Drive over the
Clifton Suspension Bridge, explore the Avon Gorge, explore the dynamic harborside or stroll through Old Bristol.
Stonehenge, Amesbury
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East England
The lush rural landscape of Eastern England consists of the regions of Essex, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire,
Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. This region lies to the northeast of London, and maintains an unspoiled
atmosphere among its sprawling countryside and waterways. East Anglia is home to medieval villages, quaint
hamlets, university towns and Edwardian seaside resorts, as well as sparkling rivers and fens, rich farmland and
rolling hills. Discover some of the ancient ruins, soaring spires in magnificent cathedrals and market towns in
East England, all at your own pace!
Whats On
February:
Cambridgeshire
Explore The Broads, Norfolk Visit the UKs largest protected wetlands.
Visit Colchester This is Britains oldest town, see Colchester Castle, the Zoo and Carters Vineyard.
Suffolk
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Whats On
February:
Derbyshire
Visit Bolsover Castle - Take a tour of one of the most beautiful castles in England.
May:
Explore the National Space Centre - A great day out for the
kids and adults alike and features real rockets and interactive activities.
Visit the Art Dejardin Sculpture Garden - Featuring a
showcase of unique contemporary art.
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River Derwent
Start this trip with a tour around Matlock Bath that is built
along the River Derwent in Derbyshire. It was originally
developed as a spa town back in the 1800s, and today is
home to the self contained park called Heights of Abraham. The sheer cliff of High Tor complete with cable car,
and many other museums and amusements. Head south to
the town of Derby, and enjoy the passing scenery of wild
moors, remote farms and tiny villages. In Derby you can
visit the Derby Cathedral or visit the famous Royal Crown
Derby china factory.
If youre pressed for time you can take the M1 south straight through to Northampton,
but if you want to see some more beautiful English countryside, take the A6 down
through Loughborough toward Leicester, and on through Great Glen, Market
Harborough, and onto the A508 down to Northampton. Along the way youll see
historic towns, stately homes and picturesque scenery.
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Whats On
Herefordshire:
January:
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March:
April:
May:
June:
July:
August:
September:
December:
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Shrewbury
Coventry to Worcester
This country route takes you through some of the loveliest
countryside in the West Midlands. Begin the tour in the town
of Coventry. Here youll find plenty of museums and galleries, great restaurants and pubs plus the Coventry Cathedral.
Drive south on the A46 through Warwick, where you can see
the magnificent Warwick Castle surrounded by beautiful
manicured gardens.
From Warwick, head south west to the city of Stratford-uponAvon, which is the birthplace of Shakespeare and home to
Anne Hathaways cottage. You can also explore the lovely city's fine historic houses and glorious gardens,
visit the Royal Shakespeare Company or perhaps cruise the Avon River by row boat.
Drive west through magnificent countryside through the towns of Oversley Green, Kington and Churchill
until you come to Worcester. This beautiful town offers a host of historical attractions to see, including
Worcester Cathedral and the Royal Worcester Porcelain, as well as great shopping, boat trips and riverside
walks.
Stratford-upon-Avon
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Northwest England
The Northwest encompasses Liverpool and Manchester and is one of the most popular destinations to
visit in England. The Northwest boasts world class historical attractions, excellent shopping facilities,
arts and culture and spectacular coasts and countryside. Liverpool and Manchester are also home to a
diverse variety of fantastic indoor and outdoor events which are sure to keep you entertained all
throughout the year.
Whats On
March:
Liverpool
Spend the day at the Haydock Park Racecourse - A 30 minute drive out of the city and the most visited racecourse
in the country.
Take a Beatle Tour - A bus tour which takes you around to
all the Beatles city areas.
Explore the McCartney Home - The childhood home of
Beatles Star Paul McCartney has been maintained by the
National Trust and is available for public tours.
Visit the World Museum Liverpool - A popular tourist
attraction which features numerous historical artifacts of
Liverpool.
Manchester
Liverpool
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Lancaster to Carlisle
Start this tour in Lancaster where you can see the Lancaster Castle, the
Maritime Museum and Williamson Park. Drive north to Appleby, which is
home to 11th century Appleby Castle on a beautiful riverside and Conservation Center. A little further north youll come to Temple Sowerby, where
youll be able to see the Acorn Bank Garden and Water Mill.
The township of Penrith is further on the road, which is home to the ruins
of Brougham Castle that was originally built in 1092. The town of Carlisle is
the final stop on this route. In Carlisle you can visit Carlisle Castle, the Carlisle Cathedral and walk along stretches of Hadrians wall.
Carlisle
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Whats On
January:
Yorkshire
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Whitby
Leeds to Haworth
Start this tour with a day or two in the city of Leeds, shopping
in fantastic retail outlets, eating in chic and funky restaurants
and enjoying the glamorous urban buzz, as well as seeing the
Leeds Castle and the Town Hall. From Leeds head west to the
city of Bradford, home to the Saltaire, a 19th century industrial town within the city of Bradford.
From Bradford get ready to explore the surrounding Bronte country. Head
towards the township of Haworth and then south to the university town of
Hebden Bridge, and nearby Heptonstall, where the church of St Thomas is
nestled in quiet streets and centuries old cottages. Make Haworth your base
so you can explore the surrounding countryside, and see for yourself the
beauty of which the Bronte sisters wrote in their famous novels.
Leeds Castle
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Northeast England
The Northeast is one of the nine official regions of England and encompasses Northumberland, County Durham,
Tyne & Wear and the Tees Valley. The northeast is a diverse and unique region which offers something for
everyone.
Whats On
April:
Northumberland
Visit the Angel of the North - An exquisite statue that people come from all over the world to see.
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River Tees
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Scotland
The country of Scotland forms part of the United Kingdom and occupies the northern third of the island of Greater Britain. Its capital city is Edinburgh which also doubles as one of Europes largest financial districts. Although
Scotland is picturesquely beautiful all year round, the best time to visit is in August. The annual festivals and
events are in full swing and youll never run short of things to keep you busy.
Whats On
May:
Perth Festival.
Monster was in 1871 and with another famous encounter
Orkney Folk Festival, Edinburgh
in 1961, visitors from the world are fascinated by
Spirit of Speyside Whiskey festival, Edinburgh
Nessie.
Four days of whiskey tastings and distillery tours
Play a game of golf- If you love golf, you will love ScotJune:
land. There are hundreds of spectacular courses includFlavor of Shetland
ing the famous Old Course at St Andrews.
Riding of the Marches, across Scotland Parades,
horse riding displays
West End Festival, across Scotland Two week
party with music and arts
August:
Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival
Edinburgh International Festival
Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Edinburgh Comedy Festival
Edinburgh Festival Fringe
September:
Linlithgow Folk Festival.
October:
The Doric Festival.
Edinburgh Castle
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Kelso Abbey
Loch Rannoch
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Wales
Wales is located in the west coast of Mainland Britain, and bordered on the east with England. Cardiff is located
in the south of Wales and is the capital, largest and most popular city of Wales. Visitors are attracted to the beautiful natural scenery, its distinct culture and wealth of history and architecture. Cardiff is known for its lively and
diverse atmosphere and whilst the city boasts a vibrant nightlife, exciting events and a wealth of things to see
and do, the city has managed to retain its small town vibe.
Whats On
July:
years of history.
Tour the National History Museum, St. Fagans - Commonly referred to as the Museum of Welsh life due to its
comprehensive collection of historical artifacts.
Spend the day at Cardiff Bay - Dine at one of the many
restaurants or pubs, take a stroll along the boardwalk, visit
the museums or take a look at the shops.
Visit the National Museum and Art Gallery - Featuring a
spectacular collection of Impressionist and
Post- Impressionist art.
Tour Techniquest - A science museum packed with hands
on exhibits and exciting things to do.
Visit the Millennium Sports Stadium - One of the UKs best
and biggest sporting stadiums.
Walk around the Gower Peninsular Sandy beaches,
limestone cliffs and easy walking trails
Brecon Beacons National Park See all the natural color
and splendor on rolling hills and grassy moors.
Visit the resort town of Llandudno Relax by the seaside
or take on some extreme sports in the twin mountains, the
Great Orme and Little Orme.
Cardiff Castle
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Snowdonia
Llangollen
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Northern Ireland
Be welcomed into Northern Ireland by some of the most charming and friendly people in the world. Northern Ireland consists of the counties of Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Londonderry and Tyrone. Discover the delights of Northern Ireland with its unique blend of ancient heritage, unspoiled landscapes and cosmopolitan cities. From the famous Giants Causeway, the birthplace of the Titanic, the rivers, loughs and majestic coastlines
that decorate the landscape, to the small, quaint villages and cosy pubs there is so much in Northern Ireland to
see and do, for the young and the young-at-heart.
Whats On
May:
Castle, St George Market, Take the Titanic Boat Tour or wonder through the Belfast Botanic Gardens.
The Giants Causeway, Co. Antrim One of Northern
Irelands most famous landmarks, the Giants Causeway is
made up of thousands of interlocking basalt columns, the
result of an ancient volcanic eruption.
The Walled City of Derry, Co. Londonderry Situated on the
banks of the River Foyle, Derry is the only fully walled city in
Ireland.
Ulster American Folk Park, Co. Tyrone In open air museum
illustrating the story of emigration from Ulster to the US during the 18th & 19th centuries.
Drive the Causeway Coastal Route, Co. Antrim Drive along
one of the worlds most spectacular and scenic roads, and marvel and the wonder of nature.
Tour the Lakelands, Co. Fermanagh The Lakelands are a haven for both wildlife and sports enthusiasts, offering spectacular scenery & woodlands.
Discover the Mourne Mountains, Co. Down Believed to be
the inspiration behind CS Lewis Chronicles of Narnia,
Majestic mountains, natural beauty and native wildlife.
Round of Golf, Co.s Antrim & Down Pack the golf clubs and
take a swing on such famous fairways as Royal Portrush,
Co. Antrim and Royal County Down, Co. Down.
Visit the Bushmills Distillery, Co. Antrim Built in 1608, this is
Irelands oldest operating distillery.
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Carrick-a-Rede, Ballintoy
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England
Heathrow
24 km west of Central London
Ph: +44 20 7222 1234
www.tfl.gov.uk
Stansted
48km northeast of central London
Ph: +44 844 335 1803
www.stanstedairport.com
Manchester
17km southwest of Manchester city
Ph: +44 8712 710 711
www.manchesterairport.co.uk
Gatwick
45km south of central London
Ph: +44 845 850 1530
www.gatwickairport.com
Luton
51km northeast of London
Ph: +44 1582 40510
www.london-luton.co.uk
Newcastle
10km northwest of Newcastle city
Ph: +44 871 882 1121
www.newcastleairport.com
Birmingham
13km southeast of Birmingham
city
Ph: +44 844 576 6000
Wales
Cardiff
19km southwest of Cardiff city
Ph: +44 1 446 711 111
www.cwlfly.com
Belfast
29km northwest of Belfast city
Ph: +44 28 9448 4848
www.belfastairport.com
Edinburgh
12km west of the city centre
Ph: +44 844 481 8989
www.edinburghairport.com
Aberdeen
11km northwest of Aberdeen city
Ph: +44 844 481 6666
www.aberdeenairport.com
Glasgow
14km west of Glasgow city
Ph: +44 844 481 5555
www.glasgowairport.com
Inverness
14km east of Inverness city
Ph: +44 1667 464 000
www.invernessairport.com
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Accommodation Ideas
Motorhomes
All the convenience of accommodation and transport in one! Rent
a motorhome from Auto Europe. For more information, go to
www.autoeurope.com/motorhomes.cfm
From all levels of style and luxury, the UK has many hotel options
to choose from. Youll be warmly greeted by the friendly people at
the front desk who will make sure your room is to your liking. You
will receive the best information from the local staff about the
closest pub offering local specialties, best shopping spots, family
activities and the best places to enjoy the nightlife.
Castles
Experience the splendor and magnificence of staying in an historic
castle in the UK. Its not every day that you get to wake in the
grandeur of ancient tapestries, stone columns, high vaulted ceilings, spectacular gardens and lakes, right at your doorstep. Live
like a king!
Self Catering
There is self catering accommodation all across the UK suitable for
those that would like to come and go as they please, including self
contained apartments, houses, cottages and caravans.
Bed & Breakfasts
One of the best ways to experience the United Kingdom is to stay
at a Bed & Breakfast. Be welcomed by families that open their
homes to guests, and who will be more than happy to impart their
knowledge of the local areas and customs. The rooms are normally
slightly smaller than guest houses or hotels, but this is possibly the
cheapest and friendliest way to tour the UK. Enjoy a home cooked
breakfast and friendly hospitality.
Guest Houses
Guest houses in the UK are usually larger than B&Bs even though
they are still family run. Most have between 5 and 15 guest rooms.
Often guest houses are purpose built so that the rooms are generally larger and the facilities are more generous than B&Bs. You can
expect to pay about the same as a 3 star hotel but with a more cozy
and comfortable atmosphere.
Farmhouse Holiday
A farmhouse holiday is a great way to meet the locals and is
especially suitable for children. Leave the hustle and bustle of the
big cities and towns behind and enjoy the everyday life on the
farm.
Camping & Caravanning
There are hundreds of caravan and campsites across the UK, with
the majority being open from May to September. Take the opportunity to enjoy the very best of the country and outdoors at its
best.
Youth & Backpacker Hostels
There are over three hundred youth hostels across the UK, which
range from basic accommodation to modern hostels.
University Dorm
Stay in great locations with simple furnishings in relatively cheap
accommodation, in such hallowed halls as Oxford or Cambridge.
This option is usually available over the holiday periods Easter and
Christmas.
Holiday Camps
Holiday camps offer accommodation, food and a huge range of
activities, normally all at an all-inclusive price. This is a great option for families, with activities for children, kids clubs and
babysitting options usually available.
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Stay Healthy
Your comprehensive travel insurance will cover any medical costs including medical evacuation. Make sure
that your insurance covers you for the whole time youll be away and be clear on what is not included. In case
of an emergency, go to your nearest hospital for treatment. For non-urgent ailments, go to the local medical
center or NHS walk in center, where you will be cared for but you will be billed for the treatment. Vaccinations are not required for travel to the United Kingdom, but check with your GP before you travel for travel
vaccination updates.
Plan for the continuing care of pre-existing conditions before you leave. Bring your medications in their original and clearly labelled containers with a declaration from your doctor describing your medical conditions
and medicines needed. If you wear contacts or glasses, bring a spare pair or bring a copy of your prescription.
Pharmacies and chemists carry most prescriptions, however it can be expensive, so its best to have your
scripts filled before you go, and carry these medicines along with a letter from your GP explaining your
medical conditions.
Stay Safe
Traveling in the UK is not dangerous, but a level of caution should always be taken when touring in any foreign country. The majority of crimes tend to occur in the larger cities, such as London, where tourists can be
targeted by crimes such as bag snatching and pick pocketing. The best advice is to keep your valuables close
to your body and out of reach from potential thieves, avoid lonely streets out of hours and dont flash your
wealth and make yourself an obvious target.
Car break-ins, theft, smash and grab and vandalism on tourists vehicles can occur, but can be prevented by
keeping valuables or bags out of sight, securely locking cars or using off-street supervised parking. As a
precaution lock your doors when driving in the larger towns, especially after dark.
In the unlikely event of theft or loss, be sure to inform all your credit card companies as soon as you discover
your wallet has been lost or stolen. Most credit card companies have toll free numbers to call if your cards
are lost or stolen, and they may be able to issue an emergency replacement card or wire you an cash advance.
Scotland
US Consulate
3 Regent Terrace
Edinburgh, EH7 5BW
PH:+ 44 131 556 8315
www.visitbritain.com
www.visitengland.com
www.visitscotland.com
www.visitwales.com.
www.discovernorthernireland.com
01 Jan
06 Apr
09 Apr
07 May
04 June
12 Jul
06 Aug
27 Aug
25 Dec
26 Dec
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Key Facts
Location: Northwest Europe
Area: 242,514 sq km
Capital: London
Geography:
The total land area of the United Kingdom is about 245,000 square
kilometres, and is composed of the countries of Great Britain, Scotland,
Wales and Northern Ireland. The UK lies off the north-western coast of
mainland Europe in the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea. Most of England is relatively flat or lowlying with mountainous terrain in the north and northwest regions. Northern Ireland is mostly hilly, and
Wales is mostly mountainous. Scotlands regions vary from lowlands in the south and east, and highlands in
the north and west.
Language
English is the spoken in the majority of the UK. In Ireland, Gaelic is spoken in some counties.
Communications:
Telephone
Country code for the UK is 44. There are plenty of the public payphones available, where you can use
pounds or euros, and many have credit/debit card facilities.
Mobile phones that have dual or trial band with GSM 900 or 1800 will work within the UK, but check with
your mobile phone provider before you leave that the roaming function is activated on your phone. If not,
you can purchase a prepaid, ready to use mobile phone for less than 50 from most major shopping centres
in the UK.
Internet
Most urban areas have internet cafes, and there are a growing number of Wi-Fi hotspots. Most international
airports will offer internet access.
Post
Post offices are located in almost all towns and cities across the United Kingdom. Post office hours are
Monday to Friday 9:00am until 5:30pm, and Saturday 9:00am until 12:30pm.
Measurements
The United Kingdom uses the metric system of measurement:
1 millimeter (mm) = 0.03937 inches
1 centimeter (cm )= 0.3937 inches
1 meter (m) = 1.0936 yd
1 kilometer (km) = 0.6214 mile
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Money Matters
Currency
The currency of the United Kingdom is the pound sterling
(). Notes come in 5, 10, 20 and 50 denominations,
and coins come in 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, 1 and 2.
Youll often hear the pound referred to colloquially as a
quid.
Currency Exchange
Travelers Cheques
ATMs
ATMs are located almost everywhere in the UK, except in
the smallest villages.
Tax
Value Added Tax VAT is a mandatory up to 20% tax on
most goods and services in the UK. Generally the VAT is
included in the ticketed price, however some larger, more
expensive goods may not have the VAT included and will
display excl VAT.
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